Autumn Safety Tips for Your Pet

1.Rodenticides- The use of rat and mouse poison increases this time of year as the weather cools, and rodents are looking for warm shelter.  Rodenticides are highly toxic to pets and even fatal if ingested. If you must use a rodenticide, use extreme caution by placing them in areas inaccessible to your pets.

2.Mushroom Awareness-Mushroom seasons are autumn and spring.  99% of all mushrooms are non-toxic, but the 1% that are highly toxic are hard to distinguish from the non-toxic varieties and can be life-threatening.  The best way to keep your pet safe is to keep them away from areas where mushrooms grow.

3.Snakes-Snakes start preparing for hibernation and become "grumpy" this time of year.  This increases the risk of severe bites so be aware of what type of snakes live in your area, particularly poisonous snakes.  Be aware of areas where they like to hide out, and keep your pet away.

4.Back-to-School Supplies-Crayons, magic markers, pencils, and glue sticks are considered to be a "low-toxicity".  But if large amounts are ingested, it could cause gastrointestinal upset or blockage.  Be sure to keep school supplies out of harms way of your pet.

5.Car Engine Coolant-Autumn is the time of year many change their coolant.  Ethylene glycol-based coolants are highly toxic.  These spills should be cleaned up immediately.  Another option is propylene glycol-based coolants.  Although these are still toxic, it is a safer option than the ethylene glycol-based coolants.  Keep your pet out of the garage or shop while working on your vehicle and clean up spills immediately.

Halloween Tips from AVMA www.avma.org

1. Days before and on Halloween, do not leave your pet unattended outside.  Pranks are committed against pets that can be vicious, and black cats are particularly at risk.

2.Candy wrappers and lollipop sticks can be hazardous if swallowed.  Chocolate can be toxic for some pets.

3. Keep pet away from lit pumpkins.  They could knock the pumpkin over and cause a fire; or burn their nose or paws.

4. Despite how fun it is for people, many pets do not enjoy getting dressed up for Halloween.  Make sure the costume does not interfere with the pet's ability to breathe, see, hear, move, or bark.

5.Keep your pet in a different room away from the door and trick-or-treaters.  Strangers and strange costumes may frighten some pets.

6.When answering the door, make sure your pet does not escape.  Make sure the pet has proper identification so he/she can be returned to you.